Resort developer chooses Loon over Killington

A resort developer has pulled out of a big proposed project at the Killington ski area in Vermont, saying it prefers to focus on its planned development at Loon Mountain in Lincoln.

The Texas-based Centex Destation Properties said Tuesday it would not go forward with plans to build up to 1,400 vacation homes and condominiums at Killington, choosing rather to focus their Northeast efforts on another New Hampshire mountain.

Plans for development of Killington’s ski village have been under consideration for 20 years.

“We decided not to move forward with Killington at this point simply to focus our efforts at Loon Mountain,” said Ed Brisson, Centex vice president of Northeast operations. “We’re expecting to break ground this fall on the second phase of development there.”

Centex officials declined to elaborate on the statement.

Its new development at South Peak Resort at Loon Mountain calls for construction of condominiums, townhouses, single-family homes and new ski facilities.

Killington spokesperson Tom Horrocks said he remains optimistic that the proposed project at that resort will move ahead. He said officials of the resort as well as the SP Land Company, another partner in the project, will be looking for another company willing to join them in their efforts.

“We’re very confident we’ll find another construction partner,” Horrocks said. “The project still continues to move forward with Killington Resort and SP Land.”

Killington and SP Land Company are expecting to continue the Vermont Act 250 permitting process, which must be completed before construction begins.

According to Killington officials, “SP Land Company has a major stake in 213 acres at the Killington base area and another 256 acres at the resort’s Bear Mountain area.”

The possibility of Centex rejoining the project still exists, according to SP land spokesperson Steve Selbo. – TRACIE STONE